Chrysler Grand Cherokee SRT8 a slice of USA in Europe

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.

Handout, Chrysler

by
Graeme Fletcher, Postmedia News | September 15, 2011

Small

Medium

Large

On a continent that’s ruled by small cars powered by fuel-efficient diesels, the launch of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 stood in stark contrast. It’s a big vehicle made all the bigger by the exaggerated front face, bolder side sills and a deeper rear apron that’s cut around two oversized tailpipes. Of course, none of this really matters — it is what’s under the hood that makes the statement. Here sits a 6.4L V8 that produces 461 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. Power is put to the pavement through Jeep’s Quadra-Trac active-on-demand all-wheel-drive system, a five-speed automatic and monstrous P295/45ZR20 tires. The on-demand AWD system, which drives the rear wheels and only engages the front wheels when slip is detected — or the throttle is hammered — also features a number of modes including a track setting. The latter hints at the SRT8’s true potential. Inside, it’s more of the same — carbon fibre accents playing off a leather-wrapped cockpit that includes an 825-watt harman/kardon sound system. It is a cool package that carries an equally cool price in Germany — the equivalent of $101,000.